AN ASHCOTT man who suffers from Parkinson’s disease is organising his third annual sporting event to highlight the condition.

Eddie Lucas found out that he had Parkinson’s disease in December 2009 and has been fundraising for the Parkinson’s UK charity ever since.

He said: “When I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, I wanted to do something to raise awareness of the condition.

“I hope to raise as much as I can for the charity, so it can continue with its vital work to find a cure.”

Eddie will be taking part in nine hours of continuous sport and will play three hours of table tennis, badminton and bowls along with 45 of his friends and family.

Last year the 53-year-old organised a badminton challenge day which raised £4,310.

He added: “This is the third year in a row I have organised an event in aid of Parkinson’s UK. I was delighted with the success of last year’s badminton challenge so I decided to do it all again but this time with different sports.”

“Since I was diagnosed I’ve had to retire from my job as a financial advisor and give up driving.

“I try to stay active, speak to people and keep motivated and playing sports like table tennis helps me do that.”

For many Parkinson’s sufferers playing sport can help with feelings of stress or anxiety caused by the condition.

Research has also shown that regular exercise protects the dopamine producing nerve cells in the brain which are destroyed; meaning those with the illness could live for longer.

The sports challenge will kick off from noon – 9pm at Glastonbury Leisure Centre on Saturday, September 6.